City Manager
A professional administrator hired by the city council to manage day-to-day city operations, prepare the budget, and oversee department heads.
How It Works
City managers are typically trained in public administration (MPA degree) and serve at the pleasure of the council. They bring professional management expertise and institutional continuity that can outlast political cycles. The International City/County Management Association (ICMA) maintains a code of ethics for city managers. Average compensation ranges from $120,000 for small cities to $300,000+ for large cities.
Related Terms
- Council-Manager Government — A form of city government where an elected city council sets policy and a hired professional city manager runs day-to-day operations.
- City Charter — A city's foundational governing document — similar to a constitution — that establishes the form of government, powers, organizational structure, and key procedures.
About This Definition
This definition is part of the CitySpend Municipal Finance Glossary — 59 terms explaining how city governments fund and manage public services. All definitions are written in plain language for taxpayers, journalists, students, and municipal bond investors.